In one of the most stunning moves of the offseason, the San Francisco 49ers have traded star wide receiver Deebo Samuel to the Washington Commanders. The move has sent shockwaves through the NFL, raising eyebrows and sparking debates about the potential ramifications for both teams. For the Commanders, the acquisition of Samuel could prove to be a game-changing addition, but the real question on everyone’s mind is: Will Deebo Samuel’s arrival elevate Commanders’ quarterback Sam Howell to become the NFC’s best QB?

A Shocking Trade: Deebo Samuel Leaves San Francisco

Deebo Samuel has been one of the most dynamic and versatile players in the league since entering the NFL. Known for his unique ability to play both as a wide receiver and running back, Samuel became a key weapon in the 49ers’ offense, earning Pro Bowl selections and helping lead his team deep into the playoffs. His explosive playmaking ability and physicality made him one of the NFL’s most dangerous threats, and losing him will undoubtedly leave a void in San Francisco.

However, with cap constraints and a loaded roster full of talent at multiple positions, the 49ers made the difficult decision to trade the 27-year-old to Washington. The Commanders, who have been looking to revamp their offense, saw an opportunity to acquire a star player who can make an immediate impact.

In exchange, the 49ers secured draft picks and assets to continue building their already talented roster. While San Francisco’s loss is significant, the move reflects their long-term vision of maintaining a strong and sustainable team without breaking the bank for one player.

Deebo’s Impact on the Commanders’ Offense

For the Commanders, the addition of Deebo Samuel gives them a weapon they have sorely lacked in recent years—a versatile, playmaking superstar capable of changing the game. Samuel’s ability to line up anywhere on the field, whether as a receiver, running back, or even in motion, opens up a whole new dimension for Washington’s offense.

But the most intriguing question is: How will this impact Sam Howell, the Commanders’ second-year quarterback?

Howell showed flashes of promise last season but struggled with consistency, leading many to question if he could be the long-term answer at quarterback for Washington. Enter Deebo Samuel. Having a player like Samuel on the field could completely transform Howell’s outlook. With Samuel’s ability to break tackles, create yards after the catch, and stretch the field, Howell is now provided with a weapon capable of making even the most routine passes look spectacular.

The chemistry between Howell and Samuel will be key. If they can develop a strong connection early, Samuel could elevate Howell’s game to new heights, potentially pushing him into the conversation as one of the NFC’s top quarterbacks. Samuel’s presence would force opposing defenses to adjust their coverage, creating more space for other playmakers in Washington’s offense and allowing Howell to focus on making plays rather than constantly under pressure.

Can Sam Howell Become the NFC’s Best QB?

It’s a bold claim, but the pieces are there for Howell to make a leap into the upper echelons of NFC quarterbacks. With Deebo Samuel now in the fold, Howell will have an elite weapon to lean on. It’s also worth noting that the NFC has seen its share of quarterback uncertainty, with veteran quarterbacks aging or moving to different teams, leaving room for younger stars to rise.

To be considered the NFC’s best QB, Howell will need to improve in several key areas—accuracy, decision-making, and consistency—but with Deebo Samuel in his corner, he certainly has the potential to make that leap. Samuel could give Howell the opportunity to thrive in a system that maximizes his strengths, similar to the way he elevated Jimmy Garoppolo and Trey Lance in San Francisco’s offense.

The addition of Samuel also takes pressure off Howell, allowing him to focus on progressing without feeling like every drive has to be perfect. In turn, this could provide him with the confidence to take risks and make plays that would help elevate him to an elite level.

What’s Next for the NFC?

As the trade officially closes and Deebo Samuel is integrated into the Commanders’ offense, the rest of the NFC will be keeping a close eye on how this develops. If Howell and Samuel form a dynamic duo, it could make Washington one of the most dangerous teams in the conference, with a QB-wide receiver combination capable of taking down any defense.

While it’s still early to declare Sam Howell as the NFC’s best quarterback, Deebo Samuel’s arrival in Washington makes it clear that the Commanders are on the rise. They’ve added an elite weapon, and Howell now has the potential to become a force in the NFC.

For the 49ers, it remains to be seen how they’ll adjust to the loss of Samuel. But for the Commanders, the future looks bright—Deebo Samuel’s arrival may very well be the spark that propels Sam Howell into the upper ranks of NFC quarterbacks, changing the landscape of the division for years to come.